Milton End hold up continues despite Portsmouth given green light by council chiefs

Council chiefs approved the £6m project at the end of last week, paving the way for Fratton Park’s most significant improvement for 22 years.

Regardless, Mark Catlin has reiterated work will not be carried out until agreement has been reached with those responsible for transport infrastructure around the ground.

Talks with Network Rail, Portsmouth City Council and central government over improving rail and road links have been ongoing since last year.

However, those long-standing negotiations have been hindered during the coronavirus crisis.

And while Pompey’s chief executive remains optimistic a resolution can still be reached, he insists Fratton Park’s development hinges on the involvement of such stakeholders.

Catlin told The News: ‘We are continuing to talk to local stakeholders who form a key part of enabling this development.

‘As soon as we achieve a breakthrough on that, we are eager to get going as quickly as possible.

‘This isn’t just about the Milton end, it unlocks the much wider project that we have available for the stadium. However, we are not starting anything until we get agreement.

‘As we have been clear from the start, ultimately we are looking for the other stakeholders who form a key part of this jigsaw to fulfil their pieces.

‘But, I have to be clear and restate again, if there is no long-term future at Fratton Park, we will continue to keep our options open elsewhere.

‘We are not looking for a single penny of financial assistance for inside the stadium from anyone.

‘We believe our Fratton Park plans will improve the area as a whole. As such, there is a responsibility from these other departments to do that work. It’s not just for the football club, but for the area generally.

‘We need to get this right for the start. We feel our plans for the stadium will bring a huge amount of opportunity for residents in the local area - and we feel there should be some contribution towards that. It shouldn’t all be at our cost.’

Pompey’s driving ambition ultimately centres on a new North stand, which will offer hotel and conference facilities in addition to boosting Fratton Park’s capacity.

However, owners Tornante want to see improvements at Fratton Station and neighbouring roads to be able to cope with the anticipated increase in footfall at the Blues’ home.

Catlin added: ‘There’s nobody we are speaking to who doesn't want to help us, but ultimately it comes down to money – and their relevant departments’ lack of it.

‘For quite a while it was tough actually speaking to people. Various people in different areas among the stakeholders were furloughed, so you couldn’t talk to them.

‘Naturally, like in many businesses, it has unfortunately slowed things down.

‘Unless we get that help and willingness to contribute to things that are not directly under Pompey control, in regards of the area, then we won’t be starting the Milton end work.’

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